The first weeks of the mayor in a flourishing town
Þórður Þórarinsson took up the post of Mayor of Hafnarfjörður at the beginning of June. His first few weeks in the role have been characterised by a period of intense familiarisation, discussions and visits, during which he has focused on quickly and thoroughly getting to grips with the city's diverse services and affairs. Thórður says that Hafnarfjörður is a dynamic community with a strong identity, diverse services and great human resources.
This is Thórður, our mayor.
Thorður Þórarinsson He took up the post of Mayor of Hafnarfjörður at the beginning of June. His first few weeks in the role have been characterised by a great deal of review, discussions and visits, during which he has focused on quickly and thoroughly familiarising himself with the city's diverse services and affairs.
„It is a privilege and an honour to be working for Hafnarfjörður. The first few weeks have been both busy, educational and extremely enjoyable. I have been making an effort to familiarise myself with the operations, the people who keep them running, and the projects that lie ahead.“ says Thórður. „It matters to listen, learn quickly and work with integrity for the town's residents.“. Thórður says that Hafnarfjörður is a dynamic community with a strong identity, diverse services and a great wealth of human resources. „What has stood out is the great knowledge, experience and ambition of the town's staff. An important service is being provided here every day, and it is clear that the opportunities lie not least in supporting the staff well, simplifying processes where possible, and ensuring that the service to residents is clear, efficient and humane.“
What are your main priorities for the first few weeks?
„The first task is to listen and learn. I believe it is important to make decisions on a solid foundation and to have a good understanding of the operations, the administration, and the expectations of the residents. At the same time, we need to look clearly to the future: how we make good use of the town's finances, how we strengthen our services, and how we ensure that Hafnarfjörður continues to be a sought-after place to live, work and raise children.“
How do you view the running of the town?
„Good management is a prerequisite for a local authority to provide a good service. This requires clear oversight, careful prioritisation, and the responsible use of funds. I emphasise professional working practices, transparency, and cooperation between departments, committees, and staff. There are many projects, and it is important to approach them with consideration, but also with ambition.“
Is there a difference between being an elected representative and being appointed as a mayor?
„Yes, the roles are different, although they work towards the same goal. Elected representatives shape political policy and hold a democratic mandate from the residents. The role of the mayor is to lead the local administration, implement the decisions of the town council and ensure that projects are carried out in a professional and responsible manner. I see this as an important partnership where clear roles, trust and good communication are crucial.“
How do you see the job?
„I see the job first and foremost as a service role. A mayor needs to have an overview, bring people together and create the conditions where good decisions become good deeds. It requires listening, discipline and perseverance. I want to be visible, accessible and in good dialogue with staff, elected representatives, residents and the business community.“
What about the roots and the connection to Hafnarfjörður?
„I come to the role with great respect for Hafnarfjörður and its history, the town's unique character, and the strong sense of community here. It takes time to get to know a community properly, but I have already felt a great warmth and energy. I look forward to getting to know the people of Hafnarfjörður even better and taking part in continuing to build a great town.“
Thórður is a political scientist by training and has extensive experience in public administration, policy-making and management. Before taking up the post of mayor, he served as the Executive Director of the Independence Party from 2014 to 2025. Prior to this, he worked as Executive Director of the Council of the Nordic Countries and in the Information Department of the Nordic Council and the Nordic Council of Ministers. Þórður was born in 1967. His wife is Marta María Ástbjörnsdóttir, a psychologist, and they have three sons.
What does the mayor do when he's not at work?
„When I'm not at work, I'm mainly with my family. Marta María and I have three sons and three grandchildren, so there's always plenty going on around us. I enjoy the outdoors, travelling and keeping up with current affairs, which is actually sometimes difficult to call a hobby when you work in it every day.“ says Thorður and smiles. „But first and foremost, I try to use my free time to be with my family and recharge my batteries.“
And finally — when are you moving to the beautiful Fjord?
„That's a question I've already been faced with. I'm already spending a large part of the day in Hafnarfjörður, and it's a good place to be. The rest will become clear, but I fully understand that the people of Hafnarfjörður want to draw people all the way to the Fjord.“